Families of Fallen Firefighters in Canada to Receive ‘Community Heroes Benefit’

OTTAWA – Families who have lost one of their own in the line of duty as a Canadian firefighter will receive federal government compensation for the first time in Canadian history through the Community Heroes Benefit, according to the 2017 federal budget announced yesterday.

“Compensation to the families of our fallen firefighters is a meaningful gesture that will be deeply respectful and consoling in their time of need,” said Captain Robert Kirkpatrick, President of the Canadian Fallen Firefighters Foundation. “The Community Heroes Benefit shows that the sacrifice of the fallen to their country and community is sincerely appreciated by the Government of Canada.   

The Honourable Ralph Goodale, Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, has advocated for the Community Heroes Benefit, particularly following his keynote address and personal time spent with families of fallen firefighters at the Canadian Firefighters Annual Memorial Ceremony in 2016.

“The Board of the CFFF looks forward to working with Minister Goodale in developing the details of the Community Heroes Benefit,” added Captain Kirkpatrick. On behalf of all the families of fallen firefighters, the Foundation extends its sincere thanks to the Minister and his government for listening to the needs of the fire service.”

The Board of the Canadian Fallen Firefighters Foundation (CFFF) is deeply committed to the families of the fallen and engages with them on an annual and ongoing basis.  The Foundation is all-inclusive in its recognition and support of the fallen whether they are full-time, part-time, volunteer, military, wildland, or industrial firefighters.